1961 Austin Mini Cooper vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Austin Mini Cooper would be higher. At 1,689 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (88 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. (54 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 511 kg more than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. (74 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Austin Mini Cooper. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1961 Austin Mini Cooper has manual transmission. 1961 Austin Mini Cooper will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Austin Mini Cooper | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Austin | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Mini Cooper | A |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 54 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 74 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 62.4 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 84 mm |
| Top Speed | 135 km/hour | 173 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 584 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3050 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 25 L | 54 L |
